Thatch Roof Conversions for Changing Needs
Bosazza Roofing offers thatch roof conversions for homeowners who choose to transition to a different roofing system. Based in Chintsa near KuGompo/ East London, we work across the Eastern Cape and offer high‑quality conversions for homes where thatch is no longer the preferred option.
As members of the Thatchers Association of South Africa (TASA), we respect the value, heritage, and performance of traditional thatching. Conversions are simply one of the services we offer for clients whose needs, lifestyle, or design preferences have changed.
Why Some Homeowners Choose to Convert
Every home and homeowner is different. Some choose to keep their thatch. Others choose to convert.
Common reasons include:
- reaching the natural end of a thatch roof’s lifespan
- wanting a different architectural style
- changing maintenance preferences
- renovating or modernising an older home
- insurance or compliance requirements specific to the property
- personal aesthetic choice
We support both paths — maintaining thatch and converting — depending on what suits your home and your goals.
Our Conversion Methods
1. Structure Stays (Recommended Where Suitable)
If the timber structure is sound, we retain it and install a lightweight roofing system over the existing frame.
This method is:
- efficient
- cost‑effective
- minimally disruptive
- structurally appropriate for many homes
2. Renovate & Reconstruct
If the structure is damaged or non‑compliant, we rebuild the roof structure before installing the new roofing system.
This ensures:
- full compliance
- long‑term stability
- improved load-bearing capacity
In both conversion methods, all thatch is removed as part of the process.
We’ll advise which method is appropriate once we’ve reviewed your photos and plans or visited the site.
Structural Assessment & Engineering
Thatch roofs are built using pole structures rather than prefabricated trusses, and many older roofs were constructed without formal engineering documentation. As part of our conversion process, we assess the existing structure to determine whether it is suitable for a lightweight roofing system.
Where required — or when requested by the municipality, insurer, project engineer, or homeowner — we bring in a structural engineer to review the roof and provide certification. If the structure is sound, we proceed with the conversion using compliant materials and product approved installation methods.
About Over-sheeting
In the past we offered over-sheeting in specific cases where it made sense and met the requirements at the time. The roofs we over-sheeted were completed with proper structural checks, fire treatment, and compliance in mind.
As the industry has evolved, full roof conversions — where the thatch is removed — have become the preferred approach for homeowners wanting a different roofing system. This method provides a clear, long-term pathway within current guidelines and suits a wide range of design and maintenance preferences.
So while over-sheeting is part of our history, full conversions are where we focus our work today.
Roofing Products for Conversions
We work with high‑quality, lightweight roofing systems suited to coastal conditions:
- Shingles
- Metal sheeting
- Metrotiles
Each option provides a clean, modern finish for homeowners choosing a non‑thatch aesthetic.
Ceilings & Finishes
Conversions often include new ceilings and finishing details.
We offer:
- flat ceilings
- exposed trusses (where suitable)
- outdoor ceilings
- neat eave ceilings
- custom trims and finishing
Our Commitment to Professional Standards
As members of TASA and accredited by ITC‑SA, NHBRC, SAITB, and CIDB we follow strict guidelines for thatching, roofing and conversions.
We ensure:
- structural compliance
- correct materials
- safe installation
- professional workmanship
- clear communication
We respect the thatching industry and uphold its standards while offering conversions as an alternative service.
Our Process
- Send us your photos and plans
- Receive a ballpark estimate
- Site visit (if required)
- Detailed, specified quotation
- Project scheduling, implementation & finishing
- Final inspection & sign-off
Featured Conversion Projects
Considering a Roof Conversion?
If you’re exploring alternatives to thatch, send us your photos and plans to begin with a ballpark estimate.
Contact us
043 738 5044 • info@bosazzaroofing.co.za • Contact Us